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Quick Answer
The cost of pressure washing a patio in 2026 ranges from 120 to 350 pounds for a standard 40 sqm patio. Small patios (20 sqm) cost 120 to 220 pounds. Large driveways (100 sqm) cost 450 to 750 pounds. DIY costs 50 to 100 pounds for pressure washer hire. In the Chilterns, prices are at the higher end due to higher labour rates.
How Much Does Pressure Washing Cost in 2026?
Pressure washing is priced by area, with a minimum charge of around 100 pounds. The cost varies depending on the size of the area, the surface type, the level of soiling, and whether waste removal is included. In the Chilterns, where labour rates are 40 to 50 pounds per hour, pressure washing is at the higher end of the UK price range.
This guide gives the current 2026 prices for pressure washing in Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Bedfordshire, based on our quotes and the prices charged by other contractors in the area.
Pressure Washing Prices by Area
| Area | Cost (professional) | DIY cost (hire) |
|---|---|---|
| Small patio (20 sqm) | 120-220 pounds | 50-70 pounds |
| Standard patio (40 sqm) | 200-350 pounds | 50-70 pounds |
| Large patio (60 sqm) | 300-500 pounds | 70-100 pounds |
| Driveway (50 sqm) | 250-450 pounds | 70 pounds |
| Large drive (100 sqm) | 450-750 pounds | 100 pounds |
| Decking (20 sqm) | 150-300 pounds | 50-70 pounds |
| Walls (per sqm) | 5-15 pounds | N/A |
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What Affects the Cost?
Several factors affect the cost of pressure washing:
1. Size of the Area
Most contractors charge per square metre, with a minimum charge. The cost per square metre decreases as the area increases.
2. Surface Type
Hard surfaces (concrete, block paving) are cheaper to clean than soft stones (Indian sandstone, limestone) because they can take higher pressure. Soft stones need lower pressure and more care.
3. Level of Soiling
Heavily soiled patios with moss, algae, and stains take longer to clean and cost more. Lightly soiled patios are cheaper.
4. Stain Treatment
Oil stains, rust stains, and organic stains need chemical treatment before pressure washing. This adds 50 to 150 pounds to the cost.
5. Re-sanding Block Paving
Pressure washing removes the joint sand from block paving. Re-sanding with kiln-dried sand is essential. This adds 50 to 100 pounds to the cost.
6. Sealing
Sealing the surface after cleaning keeps it cleaner for longer. Sealing adds 5 to 10 pounds per square metre, or 200 to 500 pounds for a typical patio.
7. Waste Removal
Waste water and debris must be collected and disposed of. Most contractors include this in the price, but check.
8. Access
Difficult access (rear garden with no side access, narrow lanes) adds to the cost.
Cost Breakdown for a Typical Patio (40 sqm)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Pressure washing (40 sqm at 5-8 pounds/sqm) | 200-320 pounds |
| Stain treatment (if needed) | 50-100 pounds |
| Re-sanding (if block paving) | 50-100 pounds |
| Sealing (optional) | 200-400 pounds |
| Waste removal | Included |
| Total (basic clean) | 200-320 pounds |
| Total (with re-sanding and sealing) | 500-820 pounds |
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DIY vs Professional Pressure Washing
| Factor | DIY | Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (40 sqm) | 50-70 pounds (hire) | 200-350 pounds |
| Time | 1-2 days | 2-4 hours |
| Quality | Variable | Consistently good |
| Risk of damage | Higher | Lower |
| Waste removal | Your problem | Included |
How to Save Money on Pressure Washing
- Combine with neighbours: some contractors offer discounts for multiple properties in the same street
- Book in spring or autumn: the busy season is summer. Book off-peak for lower prices.
- Skip sealing: sealing is optional. Skip it if budget is tight.
- Choose the right surface: concrete is cheaper to clean than Indian sandstone
- Maintain regularly: an annual clean is cheaper than letting the patio get badly soiled
Common Mistakes
- Pressure washing too often. Pressure washing wears the surface. Once a year is enough.
- Using too high a pressure. High pressure damages sandstone, tarmac and pointing. Use the right pressure.
- Not re-sanding block paving. Always re-sand with kiln-dried sand after pressure washing.
- Not treating stains first. Pressure washing alone will not remove oil or rust stains.
- Choosing the cheapest quote. Cheap contractors may not have insurance or may damage the surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does pressure washing cost per square metre?
5 to 8 pounds per square metre for hard surfaces (concrete, block paving), 7 to 12 pounds per square metre for soft stones (Indian sandstone, limestone).
Is DIY pressure washing worth it?
For small areas (under 20 sqm), yes. For larger areas, the time and effort make professional cleaning better value.
How long does pressure washing take?
2 to 4 hours for a 40 sqm patio. 4 to 8 hours for a 100 sqm driveway.
Get a Quote for Pressure Washing
If you need pressure washing in Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire or Bedfordshire, send us a WhatsApp with photos of the area and we will aim to respond within 12 to 36 hours, Monday to Sunday.
Further Reading
When budgeting for garden work on mature properties, allow a contingency for unexpected issues such as buried rubble, old foundations or drainage problems that only become visible during the work.
Put this advice into practice
Use the relevant CGM tool or follow a related guide, then send us a few photos if you would like a tailored plan.
Sources and citations
This article draws on the following sources. Specific claims are cited inline where relevant.
- CGM field records (2025-12. Site observations from gardens across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Bedfordshire.
- Royal Horticultural Society (2024). RHS Gardening Advice and Plant Finder. Available at rhs.org.uk.
- Met Office (2024). Regional climate averages, South East England. Available at metoffice.gov.uk.
- British Geological Survey (2024). Soil parent material data for the Chilterns and Thames Valley. Available at bgs.ac.uk.